About the NZSL Proficiency Assessment Service
The NZSL Proficiency Assessment Service uses trained Assessors to conduct assessments. To determine a NZSL proficiency level, Assessors use NZSLPI Assessment Protocols to determine a proficiency level.
How is a proficiency level decided?
Assessors use the NZSLPI Rating Scale to make judgements about a candidates NZSL proficiency. Interviews are independently rated by two Assessors, looking at a candidate’s use of NZSL with a Moderator determining an overall proficiency rating.
What does the NZSLPI assess?
The NZSLPI assesses a person’s skills in using natural sign language for communication (function) and it provides an analysis of a person’s sign language vocabulary, production, fluency, grammar, and comprehension skills (form).
What happens in the assessment interview?
- Interviews are led by one Assessor.
- The assessment interview is like a natural conversation, not a job interview, even though the interview may be challenging.
- The goal is to get the best sample of your New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) skills.
- To elicit your best NZSL skills, you may be asked to sign your responses again.
- Please try to maintain a good posture, sitting upright and with your arms and body free to sign.
- Please answer questions as completely as possible.
- If there are any questions you feel personally uncomfortable about you can ask for a different question e.g. ‘DIFFERENT QUESTION, PLEASE’.
- Note: do not ask for a different question if the original question is linguistically challenging to answer.
What if I know the person who is interviewing me?
That’s okay. Candidates are initially randomly matched with Assessors for the interview. However, our team checks for any conflicts of interest to avoid any impact on the assessment process.
What Is the NZSLPI Rating Scale?
The NZSLPI Rating Scale, is a set of criteria against which a candidate is assessed. The Rating Scale is a standard scale for rating sign language communication skills that is based on highly skilled, knowledgeable native-like signers. Each candidate’s performance is compared to this standard scale, not other candidates, making this a criterion referenced test.
Who should get an assessment?
To sit the assessment, you need to have some level of NZSL skills to be able to engage in a conversation with an assessor.
How often should I get an assessment?
We would recommend waiting at least a year before sitting another assessment. Longer if your opportunities to learn or practice your NZSL are not regular.
Receiving your results
Results will be emailed using the information provided at registration. The assessment process can take up to six weeks from the interview date. Your result is based on your interview performance. The goal of the NZSLPI is to give you a fair and accurate evaluation of your functional language levels at a point in time.